Sox - why should you be discouraged from going? In fact, to get political for a moment, I would go sooner rather than later just in case there is some "diplomatic incident" and it harder again to visit (smile).

So much to see. Sure, it can be a challenge if you don't speak Russian (I don't, but did learn the alphabet beforehand - imho, a "must") but people are people everywhere and you'll meet many who will are glad to help.

Never took a taxi so can't comment. The subway system is excellent (and the buses too in St P - never quite had the need or the courage to use one in Moscow).

So do go.

Cheers.

Sox, you cannot NOT go. It would be amazing to witness what your son is doing.

I do not regret for one second going to Moscow. Yes, the subways are always crowded, but I'm a 63 yr old female people call tiny and I survived quite nicely, thankyouverymuch.

GO. Enjoy. Build a great memory!!